Leaving Kentucky can stir up a mix of emotions, especially considering the unique aspects of life in the Bluegrass State. If you’ve moved away, here are 11 things you might never have expected to miss after leaving Kentucky:
1. The Horse Culture
Kentucky is known as the “Horse Capital of the World,” and whether you were a horse lover or not, the sight of lush pastures dotted with grazing thoroughbreds and the excitement of the Kentucky Derby are hard to forget. There’s something special about the rich equestrian tradition that stays with you.
2. The Scenic Beauty
From the rolling hills to the gorgeous horse farms and the winding roads of the Appalachian Mountains, Kentucky’s natural beauty is stunning. Whether it was hiking through Red River Gorge or driving through the Bluegrass region, the breathtaking views and green landscapes become a part of you.
3. The Food
You can leave Kentucky, but the food will always call you back. The classic fried chicken (no, it’s not all about KFC), hot brown sandwiches, bourbon balls, and derby pies are more than just meals—they’re an essential part of Kentucky’s identity. Plus, you’ll miss bourbon (and perhaps the distillery tours).
4. The Southern Hospitality
Kentucky is known for its warm, welcoming people. You didn’t know how much you’d miss the friendliness of strangers or the way neighbors would offer help without asking. It’s a slower pace of life where people genuinely care about each other.
5. The Bourbon
Speaking of bourbon, Kentucky bourbon is legendary. You may not realize just how much you’ll miss the opportunity to tour world-class distilleries like Maker’s Mark, Woodford Reserve, and Buffalo Trace, or even just finding a perfect bottle of local whiskey in your kitchen.
6. The Small Town Festivals
You didn’t think much about it while you lived there, but now you might find yourself longing for the small-town festivals that are part of Kentucky’s fabric. Whether it was the Kentucky Derby Festival, Foamfest in Louisville, or the World Chicken Festival in London, these events gave the state a sense of unity and fun.
7. The Quirky Traditions
From the Thoroughbred-style derby hats to the ever-popular two-finger wave when driving through small towns, there’s a charm to Kentucky’s quirky traditions. You never realized how much they became a part of daily life.
8. The Quiet Peacefulness
There’s something peaceful about life in Kentucky. You didn’t know how much you’d miss the quiet evenings watching the sun set behind the hills, the peace of rural life, or the moments of calm before the night. It’s easy to forget how much stillness you had until it’s gone.
9. The Music
Kentucky’s music scene is rich with bluegrass and country roots, and many people you meet are passionate about their local talent. Whether it was the Red Barn Radio shows, the Bluegrass Festivals, or just hearing a random jam session in a small town, Kentucky’s music sticks with you.
10. The College Basketball Craze
If you were living in Kentucky during basketball season, you know the state’s obsession with UK Wildcats and Louisville Cardinals. You might never have expected how much you would miss the energy and excitement of a game, especially when March Madness rolls around.
11. The Backroads
Lastly, you never realized how much you would miss driving the backroads of Kentucky. The scenic country routes, quiet roads with barely another car in sight, and the feeling of connecting with nature are something you can’t replicate in just any state.
Leaving Kentucky often means leaving behind a piece of your heart, whether it’s the people, the food, or the places. These unexpected aspects of life in Kentucky are the ones that often surprise you the most when you’re gone.
SOURCES
[1] https://www.reddit.com/r/Kentucky/comments/17yzcck/those_of_you_who_moved_away_then_came_back_what/
[2] https://bittersoutherner.com/charlotte-alexander-strode
[3] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-juhjrdvH3o
[4] https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SGLBTV90Po0
[5] https://thehonestlocal.com/pros-cons-of-living-in-kentucky/
